Alright, let’s talk about who’s raking in the big bucks in Australia for 2025. The annual rich list is out, and it’s always interesting to see who’s made the cut and who’s climbed the ladder. This year’s top 100 rich list australia is packed with familiar faces and some new contenders, showing us where the real money is being made down under. From mining and property to tech, it’s a diverse bunch.
Key Takeaways
- Gina Rinehart is once again at the top of the list, holding onto her title as Australia’s wealthiest person for the sixth year running.
- Mining continues to be a major source of wealth in Australia, with several individuals from the sector featuring prominently in the top rankings.
- Technology remains a strong contender, with names like Scott Farquhar and Melanie Perkins & Cliff Obrecht showing significant financial success.
- The list highlights a mix of established tycoons and newer self-made individuals making their mark on the Australian economic landscape.
- While fortunes fluctuate, the top 100 rich list australia provides a snapshot of the nation’s economic power players and the industries driving their success.
1. Gina Rinehart
Well, it looks like Gina Rinehart has done it again. For the sixth year running, she’s topped the Australian Financial Review’s Rich List for 2025. It’s pretty impressive, especially when you consider the ups and downs the iron ore market has been having. She inherited her father’s mining business, Hancock Prospecting, and really turned it into something massive – Australia’s biggest private mining company, in fact.
Even with a bit of a dip in her fortune this year, mostly because of those iron ore prices, she’s still miles ahead of the pack. Her net worth is sitting around $38.1 billion, which is a fair chunk of change. The next closest is Harry Triguboff, the Meriton founder, with about $29.7 billion, and then Anthony Pratt and his family with $25.9 billion.
Here’s a quick look at the top few:
- Gina Rinehart (Resources) – $38.1 billion
- Harry Triguboff (Property) – $29.7 billion
- Anthony Pratt & Family (Manufacturing) – $25.9 billion
- Scott Farquhar (Technology) – $21.4 billion
- Clive Palmer (Resources) – $20.1 billion
It’s interesting to see how mining is still the big player when it comes to making serious money in Australia, even with property not too far behind. Hancock Prospecting, thanks to operations like Roy Hill in Western Australia, has been pulling in some serious profits, shipping millions of tons of ore overseas.
Rinehart is also looking to the future, with plans to expand into natural gas and explore robotics and AI. She’s also been vocal about cutting down on government red tape, which she believes is holding businesses back.
She’s not just a big name in Australia, either. Forbes has her ranked as the 61st richest person in the world, which is quite a feat. It seems like no matter what the market throws at her, Gina Rinehart knows how to keep her position at the top.
2. Harry Triguboff
Harry Triguboff, often just called ‘Mr. Meriton’, is a name synonymous with apartment living in Australia, especially Sydney. At 92, he’s still a major player, and it’s pretty wild to think that about 3% of all Sydneysiders live in a place he’s had a hand in building. That’s a lot of homes!
He started way back in 1963, building his first block of flats. Then, in 1968, he put up 18 apartments on Meriton Street in Gladesville, and boom, Meriton was born. Now, his company has built over 78,000 apartments. They’ve also been pioneers in build-to-rent and serviced apartments, which is a smart move in today’s market.
His net worth is sitting pretty at around US$19 billion, which works out to about $30 billion Australian dollars. He’s the oldest Aussie on the global top 200 list, which is quite something.
Here’s a quick look at his estimated wealth:
| Category | Amount (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $30 billion |
Triguboff’s impact on the Australian property landscape is undeniable. He’s not just building apartments; he’s shaping communities and providing homes for a significant portion of the population. His longevity in the industry is a testament to his business acumen and adaptability.
3. Anthony Pratt & Family
Anthony Pratt and his family are a big deal in Australian manufacturing, holding down the number three spot on the Rich List. They’ve built a massive empire, and it’s no surprise they’re sitting pretty with a net worth of around A$25.9 billion. That’s a serious chunk of change, folks.
Their business, Visy, is a packaging and recycling giant, and it’s been a family affair for ages. It all started with his father, Richard Pratt, who really got the ball rolling back in the day. Now, Anthony’s at the helm, and he’s taken things to a whole new level. The sheer scale of their operations, from cardboard boxes to plastic bottles, touches so many parts of our daily lives.
It’s not just about making stuff, though. The Pratt family has also been involved in some pretty significant philanthropic efforts. They’ve put a lot of money into various charities and community projects, which is pretty commendable.
Here’s a quick look at their business focus:
- Packaging: This is their bread and butter, covering everything from cardboard to glass and plastic. They’re one of the biggest players in the game.
- Recycling: They’re heavily invested in recycling operations, which is super important for sustainability.
- Paper Manufacturing: They also have a hand in making paper, which ties into their packaging business.
The Pratt family’s influence extends beyond just their business dealings. Their commitment to innovation and sustainability in manufacturing has set a benchmark for others in the industry. It’s a legacy built on hard work and a keen eye for opportunity.
Looking at their position on the list, it really shows the strength of Australian manufacturing. It’s a sector that keeps on giving, and the Pratt family is a prime example of that success. They’re definitely a family to watch as they continue to shape the industrial landscape.
4. Scott Farquhar
Scott Farquhar, a name synonymous with Australian tech innovation, has cemented his place on the rich list. He’s the co-founder of Atlassian, a software company that’s pretty much everywhere these days, helping teams get stuff done. Think NASA, Dropbox, even Reddit – they all use Atlassian’s tools. It all started back in 2002 when he met his business partner, Mike Cannon-Brookes, at university. Fast forward a couple of decades, and Atlassian is a massive player on the NASDAQ, with a market cap well over $90 billion AUD.
Farquhar recently stepped back from the day-to-day operations at Atlassian, handing the reins to Cannon-Brookes, but he’s not exactly retired. He’s now the chairman of the Tech Council of Australia, which sounds like a pretty big deal. His personal wealth is estimated to be around $21.4 billion AUD, making him one of the country’s wealthiest individuals.
Here’s a quick look at his journey:
- Founding Atlassian: Launched in 2002 with Mike Cannon-Brookes.
- Company Growth: Atlassian now serves hundreds of thousands of customers globally.
- Recent Transition: Stepped down from operational CEO role in August 2024.
- New Role: Now chairs the Tech Council of Australia.
It’s pretty wild to think that a company born out of a university project has grown into something so huge. Farquhar’s move from leading Atlassian to heading up the Tech Council shows a continued commitment to the Australian tech scene.
The sheer scale of Atlassian’s impact is hard to overstate. Their software is designed to help teams work better together, and it’s being used for everything from medical research to space exploration. It’s a testament to how far Australian tech has come.
His journey is a good reminder that big ideas can come from anywhere, and with the right execution, they can really change the world – or at least, how teams get their work done.
5. Clive Palmer
Clive Palmer, a name that often sparks conversation, has landed himself the fifth spot on the 2025 Rich List. His estimated net worth sits at a cool A$20.12 billion, a figure that really makes you stop and think. Palmer’s wealth is primarily tied up in the resources sector, a field that’s seen its ups and downs, but he’s managed to stay firmly in the game.
It’s interesting to see how different sectors perform year on year. While mining has historically been a strong performer, other areas are also making significant waves. Palmer’s continued presence in the top ranks is a testament to his business acumen, even with the fluctuations in commodity prices.
Palmer’s journey in business is quite a story, marked by bold moves and a knack for navigating complex industries. His influence extends beyond just his financial success, often making headlines for various ventures and public statements.
Here’s a quick look at where his wealth comes from:
- Resources: This is the main engine of his fortune, encompassing mining and related activities.
- Diversified Interests: While resources are key, Palmer has had fingers in various other pies over the years, showing a broad business approach.
- Political Influence: His involvement in politics has also been a notable aspect of his public profile, often intertwined with his business dealings.
It’s always fascinating to track these individuals and see how their fortunes evolve. For Clive Palmer, 2025 has been another strong year, solidifying his position among Australia’s wealthiest.
6. Melanie Perkins & Cliff Obrecht
Melanie Perkins and Cliff Obrecht, the power couple behind Canva, have cemented their spot at number six on Australia’s Rich List for 2025. Their combined wealth sits at a cool $14.1 billion, a testament to the global success of their graphic design platform. It’s pretty amazing to think that Canva started as a simple idea for making design accessible to everyone, and now it’s a multi-billion dollar empire.
What’s even more remarkable is their commitment to giving back. Perkins and Obrecht have pledged to donate at least half of their fortune to charitable causes through The Giving Pledge. It’s a pretty significant move, showing they’re not just focused on building wealth, but also on making a real difference in the world.
Their journey is a great example of how innovation and a clear vision can lead to incredible success. They’ve managed to build something truly impactful, and it’s inspiring to see them use their success for good.
Key Facts:
- Net Worth: $14.1 billion
- Primary Industry: Technology (Canva)
- Philanthropic Commitment: Pledged to donate at least half of their fortune.
The success of Canva under Perkins and Obrecht highlights a shift in the tech landscape, where user-friendly platforms can achieve massive global reach and financial success. Their dedication to philanthropy alongside their business achievements sets a high bar for future entrepreneurs.
7. Michael Dorrell
Well, this is a bit of a surprise, isn’t it? Michael Dorrell has landed at number 7 on the Rich List this year, and get this – it’s his first time even being on the list! That’s pretty wild. He’s apparently made a massive $13.9 billion, which makes him the wealthiest debutant the list has seen in its entire 41-year history. Talk about making an entrance.
Dorrell co-founded Stonepeak, which is an infrastructure asset manager. So, he’s been busy building things, I guess. It’s not every day someone just pops up with that kind of wealth, especially after leaving a place like Macquarie. It really makes you wonder what else is out there, you know?
Here’s a quick look at his estimated wealth:
- Net Worth: $13.9 billion
- Source of Wealth: Finance
- Debut Rank: 7
It’s a pretty impressive feat, and it just goes to show that there are still plenty of opportunities to make a serious fortune in Australia. We’ll have to see if he can hold onto that spot next year, but for now, it’s a huge achievement for Michael Dorrell.
8. Ivan Glasenberg
Ivan Glasenberg, a name synonymous with the global mining and commodities scene, holds a solid spot on this year’s Rich List. He’s made his fortune primarily through Glencore, a company he led for years, turning it into a powerhouse in the trading and production of metals and minerals.
Glasenberg’s journey in the industry is a testament to his sharp business acumen and his ability to spot opportunities in complex markets. He’s known for his hands-on approach and a deep understanding of the cyclical nature of commodity prices.
- Key Industry: Resources and Commodities Trading
- Major Influence: Former CEO of Glencore
- Estimated Wealth: $12.20 billion
Glasenberg’s impact extends beyond just his personal wealth; his leadership at Glencore has shaped global resource markets, influencing everything from the price of copper to the supply of coal. His strategic decisions have often set trends and had ripple effects across various economies.
While he’s stepped back from the day-to-day running of Glencore, his influence and wealth continue to place him firmly among Australia’s most significant figures in the business world.
9. Nicola Forrest
Even after separating from Andrew Forrest, Nicola Forrest continues to be a major player on Australia’s rich list. She’s not just sitting back, though; Nicola is heavily involved in philanthropy through the Minderoo Foundation, which she co-founded with Andrew. They’ve been putting serious money into tackling big issues like gender inequality and supporting Ukraine. It’s pretty impressive stuff.
Her wealth, estimated at around $12.8 billion according to some reports, comes from her stake in the family’s vast business holdings, including Tattarang. This group owns some seriously iconic Aussie brands like R.M. Williams and Akubra, plus a health tech company. It shows she’s got a good head for business beyond just the mining side of things.
Nicola Forrest is a prominent figure in Australian philanthropy, co-leading the Minderoo Foundation. Her business acumen extends across diverse sectors, from iconic Australian brands to innovative health technology.
While the separation from Andrew was public, Nicola seems to be forging her own path, and she’s definitely not fading into the background. She’s been spotted out and about, even travelling overseas, showing she’s very much still engaged with the world. It’s a reminder that even when personal lives change, significant contributions can continue. She’s a force to be reckoned with, both in business and in giving back. It’s interesting to see how she’s managing her portfolio and her philanthropic efforts independently now. The Minderoo Foundation continues to be a major focus for her.
Here’s a quick look at some of her key involvements:
- Philanthropy: Leading significant initiatives through the Minderoo Foundation.
- Business Holdings: Significant stake in Tattarang, overseeing brands like R.M. Williams and Akubra.
- Investment: Involvement in health technology through Tenmile.
- Public Profile: Maintaining a presence while focusing on her ventures post-separation.
10. Kerry Stokes
Kerry Stokes, a name synonymous with Australian media, continues to hold a strong position on the Rich List. His influence stretches across broadcasting, publishing, and resources, making him a significant player in the nation’s business landscape.
His wealth has seen a notable jump recently, largely thanks to the performance of Seven Group Holdings. This conglomerate, where Stokes’ family office ACE holds a considerable stake, has benefited from market upswings, adding billions to his net worth.
Here’s a quick look at his primary business interests:
- Seven West Media: This is the big one, encompassing free-to-air television (Seven Network), publishing (The West Australian), and digital media. It’s a cornerstone of his media empire.
- Seven Group Holdings (SGH): Beyond media, SGH has significant investments in industrial services, energy, and equipment. This diversification has been key to his sustained success.
- Australian Capital Equity (ACE): This is the family’s private investment vehicle, managing a broad portfolio of assets and playing a crucial role in their wealth growth.
Stokes’ career has been marked by bold moves and a deep understanding of the Australian market. He’s been a fixture on these lists for years, a testament to his business acumen and the enduring strength of his holdings.
The media landscape is always changing, and staying ahead requires constant adaptation. Stokes has shown a remarkable ability to navigate these shifts, maintaining a powerful presence even as the industry evolves. His long-term vision has clearly paid off.
It’s fascinating to see how his various ventures, from the familiar Seven Network to his more industrial investments, all contribute to his substantial fortune. The continued success of Seven Group Holdings is particularly noteworthy, showing the strength of his diversified approach. You can find more details on his business dealings and the performance of his companies on sites like Seven Group Holdings.
11. Frank Lowy
Frank Lowy, a name synonymous with Australian retail and property development, continues to be a significant figure on the rich list. His journey from a refugee to a business titan is quite the story.
Lowy, along with his late brother John, founded Westfield Corporation, which grew into a global shopping centre giant. He’s been a fixture on wealth lists for decades, a testament to his business acumen.
His ventures have spanned across various sectors, but it’s his knack for identifying prime real estate and developing it into thriving commercial hubs that really stands out. Think about the sheer scale of Westfield centres – they’re more than just shops; they’re community spaces.
Lowy’s early life was marked by hardship, having arrived in Australia after fleeing war-torn Europe. This background likely shaped his resilient approach to business and his drive to build something lasting.
Here’s a look at some of his key business areas:
- Westfield Corporation: The cornerstone of his empire, known for its massive shopping centres worldwide.
- Property Development: Beyond Westfield, his influence in property is widespread.
- Investments: A diversified portfolio that has consistently grown over the years.
Even after stepping back from day-to-day operations at Westfield, Lowy’s influence and wealth continue to be recognised. He’s a true pioneer of Australian business.
12. Andrew Forrest
Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest has had a bit of a shake-up this year, hasn’t he? After a few years of being right up there, he’s slipped a bit on the list, partly due to his separation from Nicola. Still, the man’s a powerhouse, no doubt about it.
He’s the bloke who started Fortescue Metals Group, you know, that massive iron ore company. But he’s not just about digging stuff out of the ground anymore. He’s gone big into renewables, snapping up wind farms and really pushing for green energy through his company, Squadron Energy. It’s a pretty big shift, showing he’s thinking about the future.
Forrest and his ex-wife Nicola are still doing heaps of good work with the Minderoo Foundation. They’ve put a lot of money into helping Ukraine and tackling gender inequality. It’s pretty impressive how much they’re giving back.
His family office, Tattarang, is also a big deal. They own some classic Aussie brands like R.M. Williams and Akubra, plus a health tech company. So, even with the personal changes, his business empire is still pretty solid.
Here’s a quick look at some of his ventures:
- Fortescue Metals Group: The iron ore giant that started it all.
- Squadron Energy: His big play in the renewable energy sector.
- Tattarang: The family office holding a diverse portfolio of businesses.
- Minderoo Foundation: Their significant philanthropic efforts.
13. Lindsay Fox
Lindsay Fox, a name synonymous with Australian logistics, continues to be a fixture on the rich list. His empire, Linfox, has seen a significant turnaround, returning to profit in the 2025 financial year with revenues hitting a cool $4 billion. This comeback is largely thanks to the successful bailout of Armaguard, a crucial part of the Fox family’s business holdings.
Fox is one of the few individuals who has appeared on every rich list since its inception, a testament to his enduring business acumen. His journey from humble beginnings to building a vast transport and logistics network is quite the story.
- Linfox: The cornerstone of the Fox empire, providing logistics and supply chain solutions across Australia and Asia.
- Armaguard: A vital player in cash-in-transit and security services, its recent financial stabilisation was key to the group’s overall profit.
- Other Ventures: While logistics is his main game, Fox has had interests in various other sectors over the years, showing a keen eye for opportunity.
The resilience shown by the Fox family’s businesses, particularly in navigating the challenges faced by Armaguard, highlights a deep understanding of the Australian economic landscape and a commitment to long-term stability.
14. John Gandel
John Gandel, a name synonymous with Australian retail and property, continues to be a significant figure on the rich list. His empire, built over decades, is a testament to shrewd investment and a keen eye for opportunity, particularly in the shopping centre space.
While specific figures fluctuate, Gandel’s wealth is largely tied to his extensive property portfolio, which includes major retail hubs across the country. He’s been a consistent presence on these lists for years, a true veteran of Australian business.
- Key Holdings: Primarily focused on retail property development and ownership.
- Investment Strategy: Known for long-term investments in prime real estate.
- Philanthropic Efforts: Supports various charitable causes, often through the Gandel Foundation.
Gandel’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a property magnate is a classic Australian success story. His ability to adapt to changing retail landscapes, from traditional malls to evolving consumer habits, has been a hallmark of his enduring success.
15. Solomon Lew
Solomon Lew, a name that’s practically synonymous with retail in Australia, continues to be a fixture on the rich list. He’s been a consistent presence for years, showing just how resilient his business acumen is.
Lew’s empire is largely built on the back of Premier Investments, a company that owns a stable of well-known retail brands. Think Smiggle, Peter Alexander, and Just Group, which includes Portmans, Dotti, and Jacqui E. It’s a diverse portfolio, but they all share that common thread of being household names.
His ability to navigate the ever-changing retail landscape, from fast fashion to stationery, is pretty remarkable.
Here’s a quick look at some of his key holdings:
- Premier Investments: The main vehicle for his retail interests.
- Just Group: A collection of fashion brands.
- Peter Alexander: Known for its sleepwear.
- Smiggle: The popular stationery and gifts chain.
Lew’s journey in business is a testament to spotting opportunities and sticking with them. He’s not afraid to make bold moves, and that’s often what sets the truly wealthy apart. It’s a tough game, retail, and he’s been playing it at the highest level for a long time now.
16. Alan Rydge
Alan Rydge, a name that’s been around the block a few times in Australian business, is still a significant player. He’s best known for his involvement with the entertainment and hospitality scene, particularly through his ownership of the iconic Luna Park in Sydney. It’s not just about rides and fairy floss though; Rydge has a knack for spotting opportunities and making them work.
His business ventures have spanned a few decades now, and while he might not be in the headlines every single day like some of the tech billionaires, his influence is definitely still felt. He’s seen a lot of changes in the Australian economy and has managed to adapt and stay relevant, which is no small feat.
Rydge’s long-standing connection to Luna Park Sydney is a testament to his vision and persistence.
Here’s a quick look at some of his known interests:
- Luna Park Sydney: The amusement park on the harbour is his most publicised asset.
- Property Investments: Like many on this list, property has been a solid area for growth.
- Various Business Holdings: He’s had fingers in a few different pies over the years, often in sectors related to leisure and entertainment.
Rydge’s approach seems to be about building and maintaining established businesses rather than chasing the latest trends. It’s a more traditional path to wealth, but one that has clearly paid off handsomely over the years. He’s a bit of an old-school operator in a rapidly changing world.
17. James Packer
James Packer, a name synonymous with Australian entertainment and gaming, continues to be a significant figure on the rich list. While his public profile has shifted in recent years, his influence in business remains. Packer inherited a media empire from his father, Kerry Packer, and expanded it significantly, particularly in the casino and hospitality sectors.
His ventures have included major developments in Australia and overseas, shaping the landscape of entertainment. The sale of his stake in Crown Resorts marked a major transition in his business dealings.
Here’s a look at some key aspects of his business journey:
- Media Legacy: Building on his father’s foundation, James steered PBL (Publishing and Broadcasting Limited) through significant changes.
- Gaming Expansion: He was instrumental in developing Crown Resorts into a major international casino operator.
- Investment Shifts: More recently, Packer has been involved in divesting assets and exploring new investment avenues.
His journey reflects the dynamic nature of wealth and business in Australia, with a net worth that has placed him among the nation’s wealthiest for years. It’s interesting to see how figures like him, with such a long history in business, adapt to changing economic climates. You can find more details about his financial standing in lists of richest casino owners.
The evolution of Packer’s business interests showcases a strategic shift, moving from traditional media and large-scale gaming operations towards a more diversified investment approach. This transition highlights a common theme among established tycoons: the need to adapt and reposition assets in response to market trends and personal priorities.
18. Dick Smith
Dick Smith, a name synonymous with electronics retail in Australia for decades, continues to be a notable figure, even if his direct involvement in the day-to-day of his former empire has waned. He’s always been a bit of an unpredictable force, known for his direct approach and, at times, his surprising generosity.
Remember back in the day when he was on the BRW Rich List? Apparently, he wasn’t too keen on being there. The story goes that when the entry point was A$35 million, he decided to give away A$20 million to charities. That’s a pretty bold move, showing a different side to the businessman.
Smith has a history of making significant charitable contributions, often without being asked. It’s a pattern that’s continued over the years, demonstrating a commitment beyond just business success.
His philanthropic efforts haven’t stopped. By early 2025, he had donated a massive A$80 million to various causes. It’s quite a sum, and it really highlights his dedication to giving back. He even voluntarily paid A$1 million to the tax department in 2023, which is something you don’t hear about every day. It just goes to show, Dick Smith is more than just a retailer; he’s a character with a unique approach to wealth and giving.
Here’s a look at some of his notable financial actions:
- 2023: Voluntarily paid A$1 million in tax.
- 2025 (to date): Donated a total of A$80 million to various charities.
- Past: Divested A$20 million to charities to avoid appearing on a rich list.
It’s this kind of public spirit that keeps him in the conversation, even as the business landscape changes. His impact goes beyond just the balance sheets, showing a real commitment to Australian causes.
19. Rupert Murdoch
Even though Rupert Murdoch isn’t on the official Australian Financial Review Rich List anymore, he’s still a name that pops up when you talk about wealth and media empires. Born in Melbourne, he built a global media powerhouse from his Australian roots. It’s a bit of a shame he’s not technically on the list these days, mostly because he became a US citizen back in the day. Still, you can’t deny the massive impact he’s had on the media landscape, both here and overseas.
Murdoch’s influence stretches across continents, with his companies owning newspapers, TV networks, and digital platforms. Think of the sheer scale of it all – it’s pretty mind-boggling.
- Global Media Mogul: His empire spans continents, touching everything from daily news to entertainment.
- Australian Origins: Despite his international reach, his story started right here in Australia.
- Legacy of Influence: His business decisions have shaped media consumption for decades.
While his personal net worth has fluctuated over the years, with reports placing him around US$21.7 billion at one point, his legacy is more than just numbers. It’s about the stories told, the information disseminated, and the sheer power of media. It’s interesting to see how figures like him, who have such a long history with wealth lists, eventually move in and out of the official rankings. You can find more details about past rich lists and who topped them over at Australian Financial Review.
The media world as we know it has been significantly shaped by the decisions and ventures of individuals like Rupert Murdoch. His journey from Australia to global media dominance is a story of ambition and strategic business moves that have left a lasting mark on how we get our news and entertainment.
20. Mike Cannon-Brookes
Mike Cannon-Brookes, a name synonymous with Australian tech innovation, continues to be a major player on the rich list. As the co-founder and current CEO of Atlassian, he’s been instrumental in building a software empire that helps teams worldwide collaborate more effectively. It’s pretty wild to think that Atlassian, which started back in 2002 after he met his co-founder at university, now has a market cap well over $90 billion.
Cannon-Brookes stepped up to lead Atlassian as sole CEO in August 2024, taking the reins after his long-time partner Scott Farquhar stepped away from the day-to-day operations.
Here’s a quick look at some key aspects of his influence:
- Atlassian’s Global Reach: The company boasts over 300,000 customers, including big names like NASA and Reddit. Their software is used across all sorts of industries, from space travel to, well, pizza deliveries.
- Technological Impact: Atlassian’s mission is to ‘unleash the power of teams’ through software, and it seems they’re doing a pretty good job of it.
- Philanthropic Ventures: Beyond his business dealings, Cannon-Brookes is also known for his significant philanthropic efforts, often focusing on climate change and social issues.
While Atlassian’s success is undeniable, it’s worth noting that the tech landscape is always shifting. Keeping up with market changes and adapting strategies is key for sustained growth and influence in this fast-paced sector.
His position on the global rich list, currently at 146, highlights his substantial wealth, estimated to be around $23 billion AUD. It’s a testament to his vision and leadership in the tech world, and it’ll be interesting to see what he tackles next, especially with his focus on climate solutions.
21. Atlassian
It’s pretty wild to think about how far Atlassian has come. Founded back in 2002 by Mike Cannon-Brookes and Scott Farquhar, these guys basically set out to help teams work better together. And look at them now! Their software is used by some seriously big names, like NASA and Dropbox. It’s amazing how their tools are used for everything from space missions to just getting a pizza delivered – software really does help teams do some incredible things.
Atlassian’s market capitalisation is currently sitting above AUD$90 billion.
Here’s a quick look at how they’ve grown:
- 2002: Atlassian is born out of UNSW.
- 2004: Jira is released, becoming a cornerstone product.
- 2015: Atlassian lists on the NASDAQ.
- 2024: Mike Cannon-Brookes takes the helm as sole CEO.
It’s a real testament to their vision. They’ve managed to build a company that not only makes a tonne of money but also genuinely helps people collaborate and get stuff done. It’s no wonder they’re such a big player on the rich list. Scott Farquhar has even stepped into a new role as chairman of the Tech Council of Australia, showing his continued influence in the tech scene. You can read more about Scott Farquhar’s impressive net worth here.
The company’s mission to ‘unleash the power of teams’ seems to have really struck a chord. It’s not just about the bottom line; it’s about creating software that makes a difference in how work gets done globally.
Mike Cannon-Brookes, who is now the sole CEO, is a pretty big deal too, ranking 146th globally. It’s clear that the leadership at Atlassian is strong and focused on the future.
22. Meriton
Meriton, the property development giant, continues to be a major player in Australia’s real estate scene. Founded by Harry Triguboff, the company has a long history of building apartments, particularly in Sydney. It’s pretty wild to think that a good chunk of Sydney residents live in a Meriton-built place.
Meriton’s approach has always been about volume and making sure people can get a foot in the door with home ownership. They’ve also branched out into serviced apartments and build-to-rent, which is a smart move given how the rental market is going.
Here’s a quick look at what they’ve been up to:
- Massive apartment developments across key Australian cities.
- Expansion into serviced apartments and build-to-rent models.
- Focus on delivering quality housing at accessible price points.
The company’s legacy is tied to its founder, Harry Triguboff, who started building apartments back in the 1960s. It’s a real rags-to-riches story, building an empire from the ground up. They’ve certainly left their mark on the Australian skyline, and it doesn’t look like they’re slowing down anytime soon.
23. Fortescue
Fortescue Metals Group, or FMG as it’s often called, has been a massive player in the iron ore game for ages. Founded by Andrew Forrest back in 2003, it really took off and became a huge name in mining. It’s not just about digging stuff out of the ground anymore, though.
Fortescue is really pushing hard into renewable energy projects. They’ve been snapping up wind farms and looking into green hydrogen, which is pretty interesting. It feels like they’re trying to get ahead of the curve, you know?
Here’s a quick look at some of their recent moves:
- Iron Ore Operations: Still the bread and butter, with big operations in Western Australia. They’re always talking about efficiency and new tech to get more out of their mines.
- Renewable Energy Investments: This is the big growth area. They’ve put a lot of money into wind power and are exploring ways to make green hydrogen, which could be huge for the future.
- Diversification: Beyond mining and energy, they’ve got interests in other areas too, showing they’re not putting all their eggs in one basket.
The company’s shift towards renewables isn’t just a side project; it’s becoming a core part of their identity. They’re aiming to be a major player in the clean energy transition, which is a pretty ambitious goal for a company that started out purely in mining.
It’s a big company with a lot going on, and it’ll be interesting to see how their renewable energy push pans out over the next few years. They’ve certainly got the resources to make a real impact.
24. Visy
Visy, a name synonymous with packaging and recycling in Australia, continues to be a major player in the industrial landscape. While not always grabbing the headlines like some of the mining magnates, the family behind Visy has built a seriously impressive empire over the decades. They’re involved in everything from cardboard boxes to plastic packaging, and a huge part of their business is making sure all that stuff gets recycled properly.
The Pratt family’s influence stretches across multiple sectors, making them a consistent fixture on the rich list. Their operations are vast, touching countless Australian households and businesses daily through their products and services.
Here’s a quick look at what Visy is all about:
- Packaging Solutions: They produce a massive range of packaging, from corrugated cardboard boxes that ship everything you buy online, to plastic containers and bottles used for food and drinks.
- Recycling Operations: Visy is a big deal in recycling. They collect and process a huge amount of paper, cardboard, and plastic, turning waste into new materials. This circular economy approach is a key part of their business model.
- Paper Manufacturing: They also make the paper that goes into a lot of their packaging, controlling more of the supply chain.
It’s a business that’s deeply integrated into the economy, and you probably interact with their products more than you realise. They’ve managed to keep a pretty low profile, but their impact is undeniable.
The sheer scale of Visy’s operations means they’re constantly dealing with logistics, manufacturing efficiency, and the ever-growing challenge of waste management. It’s a complex business that requires a lot of hands-on management and strategic thinking to keep it running smoothly and profitably.
25. Hancock Prospecting and more
While Gina Rinehart’s Hancock Prospecting is a titan in the mining world, it’s not the only significant private enterprise making waves. The company, a powerhouse built on iron ore, has seen its valuation soar, making it one of Australia’s most valuable private companies. It’s a real testament to the vision and hard work that went into developing operations like Roy Hill.
The sheer scale of operations like Roy Hill is staggering, contributing billions to the national economy.
Beyond the headline figures, Hancock Prospecting is also looking towards the future. There’s talk of expanding into natural gas and even dabbling with robotics and AI. It shows that even established giants are always looking for the next big thing.
Here’s a quick look at some of the other major players and sectors influencing Australia’s wealth landscape:
- Resources: Still a dominant force, with companies like Hancock Prospecting leading the charge. The iron ore market, while sometimes volatile, remains a key driver.
- Property: Developers and investors continue to build fortunes, shaping our cities and coastlines.
- Technology: Innovators are creating wealth through digital solutions and platforms, proving that ideas can be just as valuable as raw materials.
- Manufacturing: Essential industries keep churning out goods, contributing significantly to the economy.
It’s fascinating to see how these different sectors interlink and contribute to the overall economic picture. The landscape is always shifting, with new opportunities and challenges emerging constantly. Keeping an eye on companies like Hancock Prospecting gives you a good sense of the broader trends at play.
Wrapping Up the Rich List
So there you have it, a peek into Australia’s wealthiest for 2025. It’s always interesting to see who’s up and who’s down, and what industries are really making the big bucks. Gina Rinehart’s still holding strong at the top, which isn’t exactly a shocker. It just goes to show that some things, like the mining sector and a few familiar names, keep showing up year after year. We’ll have to wait and see what shakes out next year, but for now, this is the snapshot of Australia’s top earners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the richest person in Australia for 2025?
Gina Rinehart is again at the very top of the list for 2025. She’s been the richest Aussie for a while now, even though the price of iron ore has dipped a bit. Her fortune is estimated to be around $38.1 billion.
How did Michael Dorrell become so rich so quickly?
Michael Dorrell, who helped start the company Stonepeak that invests in big infrastructure projects, made a huge debut on the Rich List at number 7. It’s pretty impressive for someone making their first appearance!
Are there any new faces on the 2025 Rich List?
Yes, Michael Dorrell is a notable new entry at number 7. He’s the highest-ranked person to ever debut on the list. It shows that new people are always finding ways to build massive wealth in Australia.
What industries are making people the most money in Australia?
Mining is still the biggest money-maker for Australia’s richest people, bringing in a massive $141.3 billion altogether. Property is next, followed by technology. These are the main areas where fortunes are being built.
Has the number of women on the Rich List changed?
Yes, it has! In 2025, there are 42 women on the list, which is more than in previous years. It’s great to see more women making their mark among Australia’s wealthiest individuals.
What does ‘self-made’ mean on the Rich List?
When someone is called ‘self-made’, it means they built their fortune themselves, rather than inheriting it from family. Michael Dorrell is a great example of a high-ranking self-made person on this year’s list.
